Definition

Causes

Rubella is caused by a virus. The virus is passed from person to person through tiny droplets in the air.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your risk of rubella include:

Never having the condition

Never receiving an immunization for rubella

Symptoms

Many people with rubella do not have symptoms. In those who do have them, symptoms are usually mild and include:

Red, spotty rash all over the body which begins on the face and occurs 14-18 days after exposure

Fatigue, low energy, and discomfort

Swollen lymph nodes

Flushed face

Red throat that is not sore

Fever

Headache

Achy joints and
arthritis
, especially in adults, which may last for a month or more

Upper respiratory symptoms and fatigue occur first, followed by the rash.

Babies whose
mothers have
rubella during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, may be miscarried or stillborn, or they may be born with severe birth defects known as
congenital rubella syndrome
, which can cause:

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Rubella (German measles or three-day measles). New York State Department of Health website. Available at:
http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/rubella/fact%5Fsheet.htm. Updated January 2012. Accessed June 7, 2016.